Latest news with #Asian-owned
30-05-2025
- Business
Shop Asian-owned businesses to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month
'GMA' lifestyle contributor Lori Bergamotto and ABC News' Ashan Singh highlight products from Asian-owned businesses.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Manhattan school club aims to raise $2,000 for Yu and Me Books after fire damage
Editor's note: The video above aired in a previous newscast. NEW YORK (PIX11) — A Manhattan high school club is raising funds to support a rebuilt local bookstore after a fire devastated it. Students aim to raise $2,000 to benefit Yu and Me Books. More Local News Members of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community at the High School of Art and Design have created 'Have You Eaten Yet?' A 28-page collection of food stories that illustrate the connection between food, history, and the experiences of the AAPI community. Proceeds will support Yu & Me Books, NYC's only Asian-owned bookstore dedicated to elevating AAPI voices. Art and Design High School PTA Inc New Yorkers who want to support young artists can make purchases on Wednesday from 3 to 5 p.m. at an event at the High School of Art and Design, located on East 56th Street. You can also make a donation to the club by clicking here. Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Cosmopolitan
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Cosmopolitan
20 Asian-Owned Clothing Brands to Shop in 2025
There's an endless amount of clothing brands out there to shop from. Like, it's hard to keep track of all the cool new labels that pop up every other day, especially if you're trying to be a more mindful shopper and give love to small businesses that resonate with you. So if you're tired of fast fashion and are looking for Asian-owned clothing brands to support, we put together a list of Asian designers and founders that should be on your radar. From colorful knitwear and jade jewelry to luxe silks inspired by traditional motifs, there's something here for everyone. Some of the brands below are high-end and more established while others on this list are more up-and-coming and relatively new, but all of them warrant your attention for their too-good-to-be-true selection. And if you want to check out Black-owned brands, Indian fashion designers, and Latina-owned businesses, we have those, too! Keep scrolling below for 35 Asian-owned clothing brands and accessory brands that you'll want to start shopping immediately. Created by husband and wife duo Yang Pei and Stephanie Li, this bag brand boasts accessible, affordable, trendy designs that often use vegan leather and recycled plastic. The pieces have been spotted on many a celeb and look more expensive than they actually are, which is great news for your wallet. Founded by three Singaporean women, Love, Bonito is synonymous with wardrobe classics for the long haul. Whether it's workwear or something sparkly, there's a style in mind for every kind of shopper. Launched just a few years ago in 2023, Maile is a designer shoe and accessory brand that often features fun silhouettes, bright colors, and whimsical embellishments like pearls and feathers. If this chic French brand isn't on your radar, it should be. Jessy Chu founded the brand after the birth of her son as a new creative endeavor to establish her identity outside of the home, and the slinky fabrics, romantic floral motifs, and Chinese-inspired detailing are to die for. Clare Ngai founded her accessory brand BonBonWhims in the summer of 2020. Two words to describe it: Maximalist and Y2K. You can count on BonBonWhims for the most vibrant selection of jewels and accessories that'll make any outfit pop. Join co-founders Jackie Skye Muller (a Barneys and Kith alum) and Marlon Muller on the court! The couple created Recreational Habits to "bring the exclusive world of the preppy elite and their hobbies to the historically excluded." Shop their tenniscore looks like crewnecks, varsity shorts, playful skirts, and more. Liang's signature fleece outerwear and ballet flats are covetable Cool Girl staples, and she's also done collabs with Vans, Salomon, and Spongebob Squarepants. The New York native is definitely a designer that the coquette girlies can't get enough of. Chinese-American designer Jessica Tse started this jewelry brand in 2018, and it has a playful, youthful aesthetic with sophisticated flair thanks to the fun shapes and pearl accents she sprinkles throughout. With organic shapes, flowers, stars, and silver galore, Kara Yoo makes jewelry for the girls who want everyday pieces with a unique, artsy twist. Take a scroll through the website and don't blame me when you get sucked in! Created by founders Phillip Lim and Wen Zhou, the brand debuted in 2005 at New York Fashion Week and spent the next 20 years expanding their empire into other categories like bags, shoes, and menswear. The Chinese-American designer was born in San Francisco and launched his namesake label in 2003. He went on to launch a contemporary line in 2011 called Derek Lam 10 Crosby, which he now focuses exclusively on. If you need a dress that'll wow, Miss Circle has you covered. Founded by Isabel Deng, the brand is known for timeless-yet-trendy sundresses, cute minis, and sparkly, va-va-voom gowns that are sure to please (Nara Smith wore one in a recent video!). Created by Wei Lin and Zoe Champion, PH5's knitwear is so cute and often features wavy, futuristic prints. Signature details like asymmetrical hemlines and scalloped edges lend unique details to classic silhouettes. Born and raised in Bangladesh, Saima Chowdhury founded sustainable label Grey State in 2015. If you're in need of comfortable, stylish pieces that are perfect for living life in, this is the brand for you. Private Policy was founded by Haoran Li and Siying Qu, who graduated from Parsons in May 2015. The unisex label has designs for everyone with a range of sizing and genderless styles. Dauphinette designer Olivia Cheng turns out such happy, imaginative designs. You'll find lots of feathers, fresh flowers, pretty prints, nature elements (see: the Dauphinette beetle pins) and funky designs. Both Chinese and French, Joseph Altuzarra studied ballet for years before he got into the fashion industry. He founded his namesake label in 2008 and his pieces have a modern aesthetic that are chic and timeless. Born in Singapore and raised in Nepal, Prabal Gurung has so many romantic, dreamy pieces like these Cinderella-esque chiffon gowns. He founded the brand in 2009 and has dressed countless A-listers, including Michelle Obama and Kate Middleton, since. A Brooklyn-based Vietnamese designer, Peter Do worked at Céline and Derek Lam before launching his own label in 2018. He's known for sleek tailored suits, unexpected cutouts, cool tie detailing, and other minimalist garments. Raised in both New Zealand and Singapore, Claudia Li is currently based in New York and started her eponymous label in 2015. For her debut runway show in 2018, she featured only Asian models to pay homage to her Chinese heritage. Hannah is the Shopping Editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from chic home decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and pictures of her office outfits that nobody asked for. I'm Cosmopolitan's Associate Fashion Editor and write about any and all trends, major celeb fashion moments, and why wide-leg jeans are basically the best. I originally moved to New York City to audition for RENT, only to find out that the play closed 10 years ago.
Buzz Feed
06-05-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
'Future You' Will Thank You For Adding These 29 Magical Skincare Products Into Your Routine *Now*
1. Elta MD tinted sunscreen because some quality SPF is arguably the most important thing when it comes to healthy-looking skin in the long run. This one has become a *favorite* amongst sensitive and acne-prone skin types. It's formulated with niacinamide to reduce redness and restore suppleness, all while leaving no residue! This formula is not greasy, free of fragrance, noncomedogenic, free of oil, and free of parabens. Promising reviews: " This stuff is magic. I use it on my face as a sunblock but also as an excellent makeup base. I've also given it as a gift to rave reviews. I hesitated about the cost, but it goes a long way, and it looks great on, so I continue to use it." — Placeholder " Great physical sunscreen for POC with a very minimal white cast. White cast is initially noticeable but fades very quickly. This doesn't really clump up in my beard, which many mineral sunscreens do. Works great on my sensitive skin." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $36.80 (available in two shades). 2. A TikTok viral overnight collagen mask that's been taking over my entire FYP for months — and now I see why! Give your skin a big ol' drink of water with this probiotic-packed mask, which starts as a milky-colored hydrogel mask, and as the hours go by, it gradually turns clear, signaling that it's working its magic on your skin. It'll not only strengthen your skin's barrier and improve elasticity, but it'll also refine the appearance of large pores and help smooth out fine lines. Many reviewers also say it's surprisingly comfortable to sleep in! Check out a TikTok of this mask in action. Promising review: "Oh…my god….🤯 No scent. It starts milky white and turns clear. I left it on overnight , woke up, and I was shook!! Pores? Where? Dry patch? Where? Fine wrinkles? Whheeerrrrrre??? Put it on over my lips as well, and it almost looked like a had fillers. It was so plump! 10/10 recommend. Holy grail of face masks. <3" — Kichi Get a four-pack from Amazon for $19 (also available in a 16-count and in two other styles). 3. A cult-fave Laneige lip mask, which really needs no introduction. With vitamin C, coconut oil, shea butter, and antioxidants, it nourishes and protects your lips while giving them a supple, glossy finish. It's truly a splurge-worthy staple you'll probably love as much as the reviewer who called it "absolute magic." BTW some people use it as a daily lip balm or lip protectant over their lipstick, too! Laneige is an Asian-owned brand that has been in the beauty game for years. (Seriously, since the '90s!) The luxury brand prides itself on being affordable, too, and has many fan-favorite products because of it. Promising reviews: "I bought this lip mask because, being in Northern AZ, you are dealing with very dry conditions. The lips are one of the first things to suffer!! I felt a difference even after the first use. I'm on day three, and my lips are soft. However, they feel chapped. I know it is very dry right now, and that may be the reason why they hurt or if it's this product. Only time will tell. Regardless! So far, I'm loving this product, and it smells yummy!" — Dee Ann Get it from Amazon for $24 (available in seven scents and in sets). 4. A gentle LilyAna Naturals retinol cream that this reviewer (an esthetician of over 13 years) has deemed "The BEST hidden gem!!" This magical cream supports natural collagen production, combats uneven skin tone, and smooths rough texture. How, may you ask? It comes jam-packed with all the goods, including botanical hyaluronic acid, shea butter, organic green tea, organic jojoba oil, and vitamins A and E. LilyAna Naturals is a small business! Promising review:"The older I get- the drier my skin seems to get. I read about this brand from a blog I follow. So I checked the reviews - and decided to try it. To say that I am blown away would be an understatement! I simply cannot express how pleased I am after literally just three uses. Normally, my skin is so dry that nothing seems to help, but this. THIS! It makes my skin feel great, and it even looks great! It's not greasy, but it moisturizes. The texture feels like whipped velvet!! It is so luxurious and feels amazing on my skin. My skin feels hydrated and normal. I feel like shouting from the rooftops how amazing this stuff is! The eye cream is just as good and a little goes a very long way. I am sold! This product is superior!!" — Shanon L. Edwards Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in three sizes). 5. Or a Good Molecules Gentle Retinol Cream if you're looking to soften fine lines and hyperpigmentation. It's got .01% retinol to help with the appearance of wrinkles, as well as bakuchiol to boost the effects of the retinol *without* irritation. It's also enriched with grape seed oil, allantoin, and acmella oleracea extract to deeply nourish and soothe the skin. Good Molecules is a small biz that creates simple, effective skincare products using science-backed ingredients. Promising review:"I'm really pleased with the results and it's gentle enough to use nightly. My lines are softer and less noticeable, my pores are clear and less visible. My skin is so, so, soft and hydrated now. THIS IS THE PERFECT FORMULA. No bad smells, spreads easily and is an outstanding value. I'm on my third tube." — Helen M. Get it from Amazon for $8. 6. And a retinol body lotion, because the superpowers of retinol is not just for your face! It's overflowing with powerful ingredients like vitamins A and E, ferulic acid, shea butter, and green tea to help diminish the look of deep wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin, crepey skin, and even sun damage — all while giving your collagen production a *major* boost to help with firming. Promising review:"I could kick myself for not trying this sooner! It is my new favorite lotion... After one night of using this, I woke up to smooth, soft moisturized skin that wasn't itchy at all. This lotion goes on and absorbs beautifully. It's not too thin or thick, and the scent is sensational... It's not greasy or slick and does not have a residue that pills or transfers." — TickTokAlice Get it from Amazon for $15.09 (also available in seven other styles and in packs of two). 7. A bottle of hydrating Meltdown acne oil — an elixir packed with rosehip oil, blue tansy, tamanu, and black cumin seed to help reduce acne, redness, inflammation, and fade acne scars, all while preventing future breakouts. It's a reviewer fave, especially amongst those with acne-prone skin! Mix this into your moisturizer, wear it under makeup, or use it as a spot treatment. Blume Blume is a women-owned, POC-owned small business based in Canada that specializes in cruelty-free, vegan, and environmentally-friendly products for skin, body, and period care. Check out a TikTok of the Meltdown Acne Oil in action. Promising review: "This stuff is AMAZING and MAGIC. I ordered more out of fear of running out. All acne and fade products have dried or broken out my skin further but this stuff clears my skin, makes it glow, and hydrates it. Beyond beyond obsessed. THANK U BLUME! xoxo" — Kaitlin A. Get a 0.5 oz. bottle from Amazon for $28 or a 1 oz. bottle from Blume for $47 (originally $52). 8. A high potency Eight Saints "Up The Anti" Night Cream, a heavy cream packed with key natural and organic ingredients, including protein peptides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to help keep your skin plump, fresh, and hydrated. Plus, it's free of synthetics and toxins! Eight Saints is a woman-owned small biz using only eight plant-based ingredients in their skincare products. Promising review:"Having intermittent bouts of eczema, and occasionally resorting to a topical steroid around the sensitive area near my eyes just felt dangerous, but that's the only thing that helped when the dryness became extreme. Enter Eight Saints. Within a few weeks, the gentle and effective potion started working their magic. And the scent? Dreamy. It's a little heavier, but not greasy and definitely soaks in nicely. I read that people commented about skin feeling plump, and I supposed that's accurate. I would also say my skin feels nourished from the time I apply til right when I wake up. It's nice finding a product and routine that relieves my dryness and I'm feeling confident that this new moisturizer is just what I needed. So far, it's a great combination for my skin. Thanks Eight Saints. I appreciate your commitment to creating a clean useful skin care line, and especially your Discovery Kit! I'd recommend Up the Anti, Cloud Whip, Seeking C and Night Shift, as these are the ones I like best. Definitely worth checking out the kit to see what works for anyone interested." — Amazon Customer 9. Or a ~juicy~ Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask that reviewers with adult acne and scarring swear by. Here's the rundown: it's got 2.5% pH-balanced AHA complex for gentle exfoliation, seven weights of hyaluronic acid for *intense* plumping and hydration, peptides derived from quinoa for visible firmness, and niacinamide for bright, evenly toned skin. It'll quench your skin like no other for that post-facial ✨glow✨. Sephora Promising review: "I've been using this for a few weeks now and I'm in love with it and the results it provides! Glow recipe is one of my favorite brands so I was so excited about this launch! This is a magic product which literally works overnight! It's helps the skin exfoliate, hydrate and brighten! You instantly see results the next day! It's definitely a must for me and I would recommend this to all skin types!" — sidrahwhoa Get it from Sephora for $21+ (available in two sizes). 10. A super effective high-frequency wand, because it's a whole skincare system wrapped up into one truly powerful, multi-talented tool. This wand helps boost cell metabolism through increased energy production and blood circulation. Consider it a workout for your skin! It can help you achieve your most elusive, radiant complexion. ✨ To use on skin while preventing irritation, simply apply a generous layer of water-based serum, place your index finger on the glass tube, turn the device on, touch the glass tube's tip to your skin, then remove your finger and glide the tube across your skin. It's recommended to limit sessions to a maximum of two minutes twice per week. And bonus! This comes with FOUR different attachments: a spot tube for targeting individual areas, a mushroom tube to treat broad areas like the forehead, cheeks, and jawline, a tongue tube for the areas around your eyes and nose, *and* a comb tube you can use on your scalp to promote lush, healthy-looking hair. See what this user has to say after doing a three-day test on it in this TikTok. Promising review: "I wish I had discovered this before my mid-40s because it may actually be a miracle device. I've had hormonal acne for years, and it makes me so very self-conscious. When I say I have tried everything, I mean everything: numerous dermatologist recommendations, microdermabrasion, regular facials, all the gimmicks out there. Then I bit the bullet and got this. Y'ALL. Y'all! You will think I'm lying, but I am absolutely not. Three days of using this device and my acne is almost gone, my rosacea is getting better, and I plan to start using it on my wrinkles next since it's doing so well on the acne! MAGICAL. If you're on the fence, buy it." — Emily H. Get it from Amazon for $74.95. 11. Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel, which is like treating your face to a morning espresso shot. It uses the power of yerba mate, caffeine, and peptides to soothe the delicate skin under your eyes, and also contains three forms of hyaluronic acid to moisturize. And here I was thinking there was only one type of hyaluronic acid — the more ya know! Promising review:"I love this product and have noticed a huge difference when using it consistently. I am on the younger side and don't have the worst under-eye bags, but on those occasional mornings when my eyes are puffy with somewhat visible dark circles, this product definitely does the trick! Honestly love all the Good Molecules products." — Hayden Smith "Saw this on TikTok and decided to give it a try since the price was amazing. OMG, buy it. I've always had dark circles under my eyes and now fine lines and crow's-feet. While this doesn't completely eliminate my dark circles, the fine lines are really diminished. It wears extremely well under makeup and doesn't feel cakey or like there's a ton of product on." — K. Grant Get it from Amazon for $5.98. 12. Gold Bond's firming neck and chest cream, because our décolletage is too often forgotten when it comes to skincare needs. This elixir is a pro at improving your skin's firmness, texture, *and* elasticity. Its salicylic acid gently exfoliates dead skin cells while its stress response proteins boost your skin's moisture retention to improve smoothness and suppleness. It also contains glycerin and aloe add some extra hydration. Iconic, truly. Promising review: "My dry neck and the annoying itchiness I used to experience have completely gone away after using this cream. It's not only soothing, but it also feels like it's really nourishing my skin. The firming benefits are a bonus! I highly recommend this product to anyone dealing with dryness or discomfort in their neck and chest area. It's become a must-have in my skincare routine." — JAcosta Get it from Amazon for $11.97. 13. An antioxidant-rich Hanalei overnight lip treatment — a magical mix with Hawaiian kukui nut oil, which is rich in essential fatty acids *and* vitamins A, C, and E to relieve dryness and restore the hydration your parched lippies deserve. It's also got agave and grapeseed oils to help keep your lips soothed and protected! Promising review: "This product is so nourishing and works wonders when your lips are super dry or chapped. My lips get extremely dry and cracked even when I use ChapStick several times a day. It is thicker than a ChapStick but not heavy to the point of discomfort. It sits on your lips longer and has more time to soak in. It feels amazing on your lips. It's also a cute thing to wear on its own if you don't feel like wearing lipstick. It's also nice to have different shade options, even though the clear one is my favorite. I also love that the scent is very minimal. It has a VERY slight vanilla smell that you barely notice once applied. I have repurchased this product several times and will continue to do so!!" — Julia Get it from Amazon for $15.55+ (available in five colors and a three-pack). 14. An exfoliating breast-lifting body scrub to get the skin around your chest area looking extraaa soft. This has an acai and retinol formula that helps firm, tighten, and smooth the skin around your boobies while also reducing the appearance of fine lines and stretch marks. Not that you need to — you'll look mighty fine either way. 😉 Promising review:"I actually got this to help tighten my stomach from the stretch marks and skin wrinkles I got from pregnancy. It really works great!! Since getting it, I use it every time I shower, and I use the Buns of Glowry serum each day, and I've noticed a substantial change in my skin. Much fewer wrinkles, and honestly, my stomach looks almost back to normal, and it's only been a few weeks! Super glad I bought this!" — Kimberly Stumbaugh Get it from Amazon for $32. 15. A brightening kojic acid soap bar enriched with vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, retinol, turmeric, *and* collagen. These help it gently exfoliate, minimize dark spots, and even out your skin tone, making it perfect for post-breakout care! And bonus — it comes with an African net, which is the absolute best when it comes to exfoliating and removing skin impurities from your whole body. Talk about a benefit-packed skincare gem. 😍 Promising review: ""I absolutely love this soap. It has a bright citrus smell that I enjoy. I've been using it for a month and and I have noticed that my dark marks are fading. It also contains shea butter, and my skin isn't dry and tight after using it. You get two bars of soap plus and an African net sponge, such a great value for money. That African net sponge leaves my skin so smooth. Overall the soap performs well and everything is such great quality. I hope this helps!" — Roottan Get a two-pack with an African net sponge from Amazon for $14.97. 16. A TikTok-famous heartleaf soothing toner because it works like a charm to soothe and hydrate your skin, all while balancing out your pH level thanks to its high concentration of heartleaf extract. (77%, to be exact!) It also enhances the absorption of serums and moisturizers and works *perfectly* prepping your skin before makeup for a glowy glass skin look. Check it out in this TikTok. Promising review: "Guys. Guys. MAGIC IN A BOTTLE. I was slightly hesitant to buy this because of the price point, but I know it was highly praised on TikTok. I kid you not; I have not had a SINGLE whitehead since I started using this. I have EXTREMELY sensitive skin, and this toner has been amazing. My skin has quite literally never been clearer. I have tried so many freakin' products to try and get my skin clear, and this one is absolutely my new holy grail. I cannot recommend this enough if you have oily, acne-prone, super-sensitive skin. I cannot express how happy I am at how affordable it is!" — morgan Get it from Amazon for $19.69 (available in two sizes). 17. SOL DE JANEIRO Brazilian Bum Bum Cream if you want to be known for your absolutely SCRUMPTIOUS scent. Enriched with caffeine, guarana extract, and coconut oil, this miraculous little jar of cream will help smooth, firm, and add a glow to your skin. But may I just highlight again its intoxicating scent? According to the reviewers, you might just get a little obsessed. Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly says about it: "I've used this stuff before and can confirm that 1) the scent is indeed intoxicating and 2) everything from this brand has scents that really STICK to you. I'm currently using the Beija Flor body wash and I can smell it on my skin hours later — which is pretty rare for a body wash." Promising review: "This stuff is magic! It smells amazing. Lasts for the entire day. Doesn't feel greasy. Goes on smoothly. I will definitely be reordering!" — Skittles79 Get it from Amazon for $24+ (available in three sizes). 18. A radiance-boosting vitamin C serum, which many reviewers over 50 have raved about for giving them a smoother and happier complexion after just a few days of use. This multitasking serum is infused with ferulic acid to increase plumpness as well as vitamin E to help smooth the appearance of fine lines. Basically, it's the ultimate glow-up your skin deserves. Promising review: "Magic!!!!! I have spent yearsss using creams (since my 20's)... This product did in two applications what my creams have not done in 20 years. I looked in the mirror this morning, half asleep, and I did not recognize myself." — Johanne Welch Get it from Amazon for $11.98. 19. Or a Tree of Life face serum set — this triple threat of retinol, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid serum will help brighten, firm, *and* hydrate your skin for maximum radiance. Plus, it smells like green tea! For morning use, apply the vitamin C serum. For evening use, apply the retinol serum. Always finish off with the hyaluronic acid serum and moisturizer. And don't forget to wear your sunscreen (retinol increases sun sensitivity)! Promising Review:"Wow. I'm almost out of the first three bottles I bought so let me just say, even if you only do your morning routine (because you keep falling asleep before your night routine...) you will still see a major difference!! I swear it took less than two weeks for my skin to clear up. I look like I have glass skin!! I wash my face then use the serums (vitamin c then hyaluronic) then spray on rose water toner, use my CeraVe eye cream, then CeraVe moisturizer." — Bri Get a set of three from Amazon for $24.99 (also available in other sets). 20. A Seoul Ceuticals Snail Repair Cream, which has organic green tea and vitamins that brighten dull skin and help fade discoloration. And, thanks to its high concentration of snail mucin extract, your complexion will look plumped and ✨glowy✨. This snail cream is cruelty-free and non-comedogenic. (So no need to worry about clogged pores!) Promising review: "When I apply this product to my skin, it feels different from a regular moisturizer—almost like a refreshing burst of vitamins. It has a refreshing, cool sensation that lifts my mood. Even with just a small amount, the cream's moisture seems to absorb well into my skin." — Orion Park Get it from Amazon for $20. 21. A pore-clearing cleansing oil because it uses the calming powers of heartleaf oil to soothe irritated skin and eliminate makeup residue, blackheads, and sebum while preventing pore congestion — perfect to incorporate in a double cleansing routine! It's also hypoallergenic and works wonders for sensitive, acne-prone skin. BTW, a lot of reviewers say they use this as part of their double cleansing routine. As the name implies, double cleansing is a method of cleansing your face twice: first with an oil-based cleanser, and again with a water-based cleanser to help get all the yucky stuff out of your pores. Promising reviews:"This is my first time ordering an oil-based cleanser, and I'm so glad I purchased this one. I originally saw this product on TikTok and wanted to see what the hype was all about. After using the cleanser on my dry face for 2-3 minutes, I could visibly see my white/black heads on my fingers. I was a little hesitant to try oil cleansing as I have acne-prone skin, however, my face has never looked better. After each use, my face is as soft as a baby's bottom and my scarring doesn't look as deep! The cleanser has a light clean scent. Not super strong! I am currently pairing this cleanser with the Anua heartleaf soothing toner to achieve glass skin. #glassskinera" — Myshel Cagle Get it from Amazon for $14.15. 22. And a lightweight mild gel cleanser, which works *perfectly* as the second step in a double cleansing routine! Its relatively low pH helps balance and protect your skin from acne-causing irritants without stripping it and making it feel bone-dry afterward. It's also enriched with tea tree oil and BHA to help keep your skin nice and smooth. All Cosrx products are dermatologist-tested, cruelty-free, and have no parabens, sulfates, or phthalates. Promising reviews:" Especially if you're looking for glass skin, you can definitely go for this product. I really loved it. Really comfortable to use regularly. It clears all the dirt off and makes my skin feel fresh and glowy. Really value for the money. Just go for it." — Dheeraj "After hours of exhaustive research on Korean gentle cleansers, I finally decided upon a cleanser. This was one of the best decisions I have ever made for my face! I have sensitive, combination, and very volatile skin, so if I ever make it unhappy, it definitely lets me know. This cleanser is light enough that it doesn't feel thick or cloying, it has a very subtle smell (which I love), and the ph of the cleanser is so low that the only thing I am worried about for my face anymore is the ph of the water I am splashing on my face. It hasn't caused any bad breakouts or negative reactions like drying or tightness of skin but it can certainly handle itself in the department of a full face cleanser. This has caused me to look forward to trying more Cosrx products!" — Haley Hart Get it from Amazon for $11.90. 23. A bottle of TikTok-famous Cosrx Snail Mucin Power Essence that works so effectively it's got some reviewers wondering what kind of witchcraft is in it. This mystical essence will soothe and rejuvenate your skin so quickly, it'll make you think the exact opposite of "ew" when you think of snail mucin. It can also give your skin a natural "I woke up like this" glow that has earned it over 59,000 5-star ratings! And tell Gary not to worry! The snail mucin is obtained in a safe way, so no snails are harmed! I've personally been using this for months now and it's amazing how it's improved aspects of my skin that I didn't even know needed improving. I didn't think my skin looked too dull before, but after see how this brightened and soothed my skin, I'm never going back. I spray my face with rose water, gently pat the essence into my skin while it's still damp, and let it absorb. Plus, it absorbs so quickly, it's like your skin is saying "gimme gimme gimme!!" Promising review:"OBSSESSED!! Purchasimng for the rest of my life. If you haven't been using snail mucin literally what are you doing! game changer for keeping the skin hydrated! The proper way to use this is put on your toner and while your sin is still wet apply this over it and let it dry then go in with the rest of your routine. It's changed my skin so quickly and has made it really hydrated, brighter, and bouncy — definitely has been helping with my "glass skin" complex. Love love love it!" — calico Get it from Amazon for $16.98. 24. A container of Aquaphor multipurpose healing ointment, aka the holy grail here to soothe, protect, and restore smooth skin. Got some chapped skin? Just got a new tattoo? Dealing with your baby's diaper rash? This miracle-working ointment is here to save the day. Promising review:"At first I wasn't sure I'd like this product because it is so greasy; I even heard it referred to as 'the new Vaseline.' My doctor recommended it for my cracking cuticles and fingers. I discovered that I was using too much, my mistake; I was applying it like regular hand lotion/cream. Once I learned a little goes a long way, I love it!! I keep the jar beside my bed and rub a small dab on my hands before turning off the light so it has all night to soak in. My hands are now crack-free and soft even though it is the middle of winter with extremely frigid weather." — Mooselady Get it from Amazon for $17.79+. 25. An antioxidant-packed Eight Saints Skincare Cloud Whip because it's a fragrance-free vitamin C moisturizer made to minimize the look of fine lines, fade sun spots, and prevent discoloration while locking in moisture. However, reviewers also praise its ability to keep feeling soft and smooth, so that's a nice bonus. 😉 Eight Saints is a woman-owned small biz using only eight plant-based ingredients in their skincare products. Promising review: "The perfect day cream. I love this product! Its lightweight, silky texture absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue. It feels so refreshing with the citrus peel oil and ylang-ylang, making it an absolute delight to use. It provides long-lasting hydration throughout the day, keeping my skin moisturized and plump." — brandi j bergeron Get it from Amazon for $33. 26. A holy-grail Paula's Choice Salicylic Acid Exfoliant that people with sensitive, acne-prone-, redness-prone-, and textured skin swear by. It's made with salicylic acid that penetrates your pores to help catch breakouts before they reach the surface. And bonus! Its green tea leaf extract quickly calms redness and soothes skin sensitivity. Promising reviews: "I don't know what sorcery this is or what kind of magic is included, but I can tell you this has changed my skin. I am late 50s with horrible oily skin. I have never taken care of my skin, but I bought this after reading a review, and HOLY COW. This is the REAL DEAL." — cynthia williamson Get it from Amazon for $14+ (available in three sizes). 27. A Solawave red light therapy wand because it gives you the power of a pro-level facial right at home. It's got red light therapy that helps fade discoloration, micro-currents that stimulate facial muscles and lift skin, and therapeutic warmth to decrease redness and help your skin absorb your skincare products even more. According to my girl math, that means it basically pays for itself. Solawave is a LGBTQ-owned small biz based in Los Angeles. Here's what BuzzFeed editor Amanda Davis has to say about it:"This. gadget. is. worth it! 👏🏾 Using the Solawave was my first time introducing red light therapy into my skincare routine and the difference in my hyperpigmentation is honestly mind blowing. The tone of my face is much more even and the dark circles around my eyes have nearly disappeared. Essentially, it's like a mix of a jade roller (which I already love using anyway) and an LED mask in microcurrent/vibration therapy, too. You can apply the specific Solawave activating serum or any conductive gel of your choice (I use a different one, myself!) and it will really absorb the benefits when used with the wand. I only use it once every other day (at night) and it's super relaxing. My skin is always ✨glowing✨ the next day!" Get it from Amazon for $109.85 (available in three colors). 28. Or a color light therapy mask that can adjust your skin's specific needs with the click of a button. Looking for some anti-aging properties? Red light. Trying to clear your breakout? Blue light. Want to balance and even out your skin tone? Green light. Reviewers are raving about how smooth, bright, and bouncy their skin looks! What's even better is that you can just sit back, grab a book or watch some TV, and have some ~me time~. This mask offers seven LED colors, all ranging in different skin benefits! It is recommended that you do sessions three to five time a week for 15–25 minutes. Check out this user's review of it in this TikTok. Promising reviews:"When I first got this, I started using it every night for 20 minutes with a level five energy on the red light setting and started noticing real results. Clear skin, smaller pores, overall better appearance. With consistent use you will start seeing results! Definitely a splurge purchase but if you are a skin junkie like me, it's worth it!" — Katie McCulloch "TWO-YEAR UPDATE: 10/10, my skin is SIGNIFICANTLY clearer and brighter when I use my mask regularly. I have very sensitive acne prone skin and this refines my pores and keeps my breakouts at bay! I also notice smoother and healthier glow. LOVE THIS MASK!" — Scott Get it from Amazon for $150.89. The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.
CTV News
03-05-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Asian Heritage Month: Highlighting businesses owned by Montrealers
It's Asian Heritage Month. To celebrate Montrealers with origins from the Far East diaspora, every Saturday in May, CTV News is highlighting individuals who have not only built their lives here but also created thriving local businesses. L'Atelier Floral Christine Law says she's never been afraid to take a leap of faith and wait patiently as it blooms into something wonderful. In fact, the 37-year-old Montrealer says she welcomes the challenge. 'I believed in my vision and trusted that my perseverance…would take me somewhere meaningful,' she said. 'Launching L'Atelier Floral was both exciting and humbling.' The atelier, a luxury flower shop in Montreal, first opened in 2017 and was the culmination of years of personal exploration and trying things that, well, didn't always work out the way Law intended. 'I took a bold step and tried to open a shop in Chinatown. I wanted to create something beautiful for the community and reconnect with my heritage in a meaningful way,' she said. 'Unfortunately, the timing and market dynamics weren't right.' She says while things didn't work out there, she doesn't see the endeavour as a failure. 'It taught me resilience, adaptability, and to trust my long-term vision,' she said. 'Maybe it's just my personality, but I don't let external perceptions define what I can or cannot do. Being a person of colour adds depth to my story. It's part of who I am and what I bring to the table.' Over the years, Law says she's made a habit of letting the results speak for themselves, adding that the floral oasis she created hasn't gone unrecognized by her community. 'From kind messages and referrals to customers choosing to buy from me simply because they wanted to support a local Asian-owned business,' she said. 'That sense of community and mutual pride has been really meaningful. It reminds me that showing up and doing what I do every day can have an impact beyond just the business.' Savoir Wealth It's a man's world…but Jennifer Torres is taking over, all the while raising her four girls and living her best life. 'Being a business owner and being a mom and a wife and taking care of the home,' she said, 'generating your own income, certainly, was not just challenging, but it really tested my limits of what I can sustain and survive.' Torres created Savoir Wealth, a business and financial advisory firm, after studying business and working a corporate job that eventually led her to want something for herself. So, she took the plunge into the male-dominated world. 'It was an automatic that I was the assistant. They looked to me to get the coffee, and never with a negative connotation, but just sort of an assumed role,' she said. 'Being Asian, I think it's also in my personality to serve. I was raised that way. I wouldn't change anything about it, but it can certainly get you stuck.' Expand Autoplay 1 of 3 Savoir Wealth Savoir Wealth founder Jennifer Torres. (Savoir Wealth) Savoir Wealth Savoir Wealth founder Jennifer Torres. (Savoir Wealth) Savoir Wealth Savoir Wealth founder Jennifer Torres. (Savoir Wealth) The business consultant and financial security advisor admits it took a while for people to stop seeing her as 'the help' and instead recognize her as a trailblazer. 'When I started in my 20s and being Asian, I had good genes that came from my parents, so I was battling even, how can somebody trust you with their money when I look so young?' Torres recalls. 'It certainly was frustrating, I think, to just learn to accept it.' In the end, Torres says not only did she learn to accept people's preconceived notions of her – she learned to use them to her advantage. 'I felt like I had something to prove. I was a perpetual student. So, I learned in every opportunity that I had,' she said. 'I took accountability. I took initiative. It gave me opportunities to learn from more senior advisors.' Nowadays, Torres spends her days helping people make the most important financial decisions of their lives. 'It's not often that the clients actually come to us and tell us what their goals are,' she said. 'We actually help them identify it and numerate it and put a number to it.' Expand Autoplay 1 of 2 Café Rì Yuè Pictures of Café Rì Yuè. (Café Rì Yuè) (Carlos Sung) Café Rì Yuè Pictures of Café Rì Yuè. (Café Rì Yuè) Café Rì Yuè Café Rì Yuè was never a business Daisy Yuan planned to start, but she says she got the idea when she noticed that the K-pop (Korean pop) trend was taking over social media. 'I feel like Montreal started to embrace Asian culture more compared to pre-COVID-19,' she said. 'For me, Café Rì Yuè is more than just a business, it's a way to create representation in the food scene, introduce people to Asian flavours in a romantic and elegant setting and build a community.' She admits the journey hasn't always been easy, with the idea behind the cafe surfacing in October 2020 after Yuan's previous business, a bubble tea shop, closed during the pandemic. 'I started making the kind of cakes I like to eat back in Taiwan, but are hard to find in Montreal,' she said, explaining that she first operated only online. 'It was my last try before I seriously considered a career change.' The 33-year-old grew up in Taiwan and moved to Montreal 20 years ago, graduating from Concordia University with a degree in international business. 'I hope that by supporting small POC (person of colour) businesses, people gain a deeper appreciation for the cultures and stories behind them,' Yuan said. 'Our cafe is not just about serving desserts and drinks, it's about sharing a piece of our heritage, creating a space where different cultures meet and redefining what Asian-inspired flavours can be in Montreal.' She says she's glad she took a chance on herself and has been overwhelmed by the city's warm reception. 'Supporting businesses like ours helps ensure that diverse voices are represented in the food scene,' she said, 'that traditions evolve in new and exciting ways, and that the city continues to thrive as a place where everyone's culture has a place to shine.'
